My Alerts A robot in the métro!
A cleaning robot, known as Neo, is now in service at Berri-UQAM station.
Why use this robot in the metro?
The autonomous robot helps to better equip maintenance staff for their work. This device can be used to help clean large areas, which can then contribute to customers experience during their commute.
What does Neo do and how does he work?
The robot performs a task similar to a floor scrubber, which is a piece of equipment used to perform heavy-duty cleaning on large surfaces. Neo is powered by artificial intelligence software.
When deployed, Neo maps the space to be cleaned and generates a cleaning plan. Neo’s onboard sensors then examine the space and he determine the best route to maximize cleaning efficiency while minimizing the need for a human to step in.
Why choose the Berri-UQAM station to use the robot?
We initially chose Berri-UQAM for the Neo pilot project because of the métro station’s size, architectural layout, and variations in flooring. These characteristics allowed us to assess how the robot would behave in different situations.
Given the success of the pilot project in winter 2024, Neo has been kept in service at Berri-UQAM, where he’s a valuable tool for the maintenance team.
How does Neo react when it encounters an obstacle in its path?
Neo is equipped with various sensors that can detect obstacles in his path and navigate around them.
If someone or something unexpectedly enters Neo’s path, he automatically stops. He then calculates a different path based on the new data before moving again.
Why does the robot emit light or sound signals when in operation?
Neo is equipped with a beacon and signalling lights, as well as a range of audio alerts, making him highly visible and able to signal what he’s about to do.
Why does Neo project a blue light onto the floor?
The blue light projected in front of the robot is a visual indicator that makes it easy for people to see where he’s going next as he moves.
Do you have comments or suggestions about this project? Write to us here.